A call has been made for poets to harness the power of poetry as a vehicle for peace, inclusion, and social transformation. This charge was delivered by Dr. Lucky Aibeli, a Publishing Consultant and Senior Lecturer at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, during the 2025 World Poetry Day Lecture organized by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ogun State Chapter. The event took place on Friday at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta.
Addressing an audience of literary enthusiasts, students, and academics, Dr. Aibeli emphasized the unique ability of poetry to highlight societal ills such as discrimination, injustice, and human rights violations. He urged poets to use their craft to critique vices and promote justice, unity, and development.
“Poetry evokes powerful emotions through the deliberate selection and arrangement of words,” he stated, explaining that poems can bridge divides by fostering love, empathy, and constructive criticism.
Dr. Aibeli traced the human connection with poetry from birth to death, arguing that poetic expressions shape human experiences across different life stages. He referenced renowned poets like the late Ken Saro Wiwa and Pa Aig Imoukeide, who effectively used pidgin English to reach wider audiences. He encouraged contemporary poets to consider indigenous languages to maximize their impact.
Furthermore, Dr. Aibeli cited Ezigbo, who described poetry as “the language of the gods,” reinforcing the idea that poetry serves as a divine medium of communication. He pointed to religious texts and traditions where poetic verses play a central role in conveying spiritual and moral teachings.
He urged poets to embrace their roles as society’s conscience, using poetic license to elevate discourse, inspire public action, and nurture peaceful coexistence. “The poet is more than an artist; they are a historian, a moralist, and a bridge-builder,” he asserted.
In his welcome address, the Ogun State Chairman of ANA, Dr. Chris Omotosho, commended members for their unwavering commitment to literature and ethics. He encouraged them to continue using poetry as a force for positive change in society.
Representing the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, the Director of the Centre for Degree Programme, Dr. T. O. Salawudeen, expressed gratitude to ANA for hosting the event at the institution. He noted that the engagement provided a valuable learning experience for students, exposing them to the insights of accomplished authors and literary figures.
The event featured poetry readings from members and students, who enthralled the audience with powerful recitations. The atmosphere was filled with creativity, as participants explored themes of justice, resilience, and hope through their verses.
World Poetry Day 2025 in Abeokuta was not just a celebration of the art of poetry but a reaffirmation of its enduring relevance in shaping a just and inclusive society.
